Epic Birthday Party

 

Today - July 12th - is Kessler's birthday. However, Cheryl and Parker threw a party for him at the Stronk's house five days ago (before they flew back to CA). 

Kessler is a huge fan of Jack Skellington from the movie "Nightmare Before Christmas", so that's the theme he told his mom he wanted for his birthday party. Many people on both sides of the family were in attendance and it was a very fun party.

This is the party invitation, which I thought was very cute.

This is the cake that my niece, Heather Bremner, made for the party. She is so talented! The cake was a big hit. It was not only cute, but very tasty as well.

Kessler posing with the cool cake.

While we were all enjoying the delicious hamburgers Parker grilled for us along with other delicious foods, Kessler got a very big surprise. His uncle Ryan (one of three) entered the room dressed up as Jack Skellington as music ("this is Halloween, this is Halloween") from the movie  played in the background.  It was an epic moment. Only a handful of us knew Ryan was coming dressed as Jack, so it was a very exciting moment. Kessler was so shocked to see "Jack" that he didn't know what to do or say. He just stared in awe at him. The other kids were excited about it, too!

Neither Kessler nor Wesley was afraid to sit on "Jack's" lap.

Ryan brought extra make-up with him so Kessler could get his face painted like Jack. Grandma Karla was happy to be the make-up artist. Kessler patiently held very still for the whole procedure.

Our two handsome "Jack's"!

Having "Jack" visit the party was a true highlight. I'm sure it made Kessler's day. It took a while for Kessler to discover who "Jack" really was. I think someone had to tell him. Great costume, Ryan! You did a terrific job playing the part of "Jack" and I don't think any of us will ever forget that awesome surprise at the party.

SIDE NOTE: Ryan didn't get the idea to dress up as Jack until about 4 hours before the party was to begin. He, luckily, found the costume on Facebook Marketplace and purchased it for $10. Someone he knows did his make-up, which took 2 hours to do. Pretty miraculous to pull all of that together in just 4 hours. I'm sure glad he made it happen. It was a magical moment!